Life of a Door Gunner | Vietnam Veteran

[@SEIDAHO71]

My uncle was a door gunner in Vietnam, he's still alive, I've never heard him utter a single word about being there and I've never asked...just happy he's still around.

[@NormPetersonsBarStool]

Many thanks to your uncle

[@drummerdon5093]

Ask him

[@iambiggus]

Same with my uncle. Came back all kinds of messed up, too. Only time I’ve ever heard him even mention Vietnam was when he was super drunk one holiday get together.

[@MK-ze8xu]

My buddy’s grandpa is the same way. None of the vets from then like talking about this war

[@zyrrhos]

@@MK-ze8xu My father served in Korea and Vietnam and he never talked about either one. There must come an existential disillusionment when you realize your country has lied you into fighting in senseless wars, and ultimately doesn't care that you did. We're seeing that play out now with the high suicide rate of soldiers returning from the Middle East. Sad.

[@duncanhepworth9051]

the guy just comes across as humble, solid, dependable and no drama, quality human being, respect sir,

[@Zero11511]

Most of the Australian people are.

[@DAICHI-SENPAI]

@@Zero11511 I can confirm this, just passed through the line at mcdonalds the other night (here in Kansas) and had an australian guy taking my order. Just seemed like a genuine dude purely of deamnor alone.

[@Zero11511]

@@DAICHI-SENPAI I had a very good experience in Melbourne with the people

[@jamesbaker7780]

I would have been proud to serve with him. I was there during the same period. Lot of dudes I served with were like him. Honorable man, wish I could buy him a beer. host the beers, look each other in the eye and not say a word. No words needed I can see it in his eyes.

[@closer20jc]

@@jamesbaker7780 lol

[@RatschbumUnica]

When I clicked this I thought it would be an American, a lot of people forget how the Aussies stood with us in Vietnam, good people.

[@martinsparrow150]

And kiwis

[@classicxl]

And Canadians

[@Bongstahable]

@@classicxl canadia is america

[@tomfabian1754]

Same forces in Korea

[@MLHMODZ]

If I’m not mistaken Australia has served alongside the US in every war since WWI

[@younglock5499]

Really likable humble fella.Not glorifying anything.Would love to sit and have a beer with this man and listen to his story's.

[@mikeloghry9521]

As would I SALUTE

[@devinrivers5808]

may day ...same here..did know the Aussies where allies with America in Vietnam

[@cresalp]

Killer grandpa rules

[@darrensmith9638]

He's my Dad :)

[@younglock5499]

@@darrensmith9638 Tell your auld man if he's ever in Glasgow the beers are on me.All the best to him.

[@Mr-xp4ez]

As an Australian I am so proud to read positive comments from our allies. Together we stand...

[@rtrimble1964]

🇦🇺 🇦🇺 🇦🇺

[@Mr-xp4ez]

@jeffrosamson Pump your brakes fem boy. There's more to being allies than just war..

[@7Ps1969]

@jeffrosamson because of men ,like the one in this video people like you can spout your shit on the internet because you have freedom of speech ...

[@jonmcclane7433]

Americans probably love the Aussies more than any other Country. We're more similar than most realize. Cheers mate

[@pauljameshanley1281]

The brits love you guys,,,,.some ,,some of our so called leaders ,,may not,, but the people do ,WE KNOW .Thanks

[@dr.phillnaadoftennessee.9788]

My father-in-law was a door gunner in Vietnam. He told me that he didn't want to do what he had to do, but he done what was expected of him. He also told me one time his Chopper was shot down and he got knocked out and the next thing he knew was waking up in the hospital. He had a crazy sense of humor lol. He also said that he grew up on a farm and he had never gotten any mail before until one day he was working out in the field and one of his sister hollered for him and said Paul you got some mail! He ran up to the house he was all excited! Until he found out what it was, it was his draft notice. He said after that he didn't want no more damn mail.. He was a good man I thought a lot of him.. He passed away a few years ago, RIP Paul Morgan.

[@acelilsmoke7293]

Sounds like a bloody legend mate hope he got the things he wanted out of his life

[@whydoesyoutubeallownamesth5598]

@@acelilsmoke7293 yeah. RIP

[@CrimsonAlchemist]

These guys killed innocent children, women and old people that are minding their own business in Vietnam. Many soldiers later admitted how they view the Vietnamese as animals than human beings.

[@kayem3824]

@@acelilsmoke7293 Legend? For killing poor peasant people from the air for no reason.

[@acelilsmoke7293]

@@kayem3824 there was a reason though I do agree it was a pointless war but doesn't take away from the fact that back then he thought he was doing what was right for America, and the world.

[@rexross7086]

Until they all come home I will never forget the brave men and women who fought in the Vietnam War

[@wtfjoe3276]

This man single handily saved more of our American relatives lives than he even knew at the time. What a hero...this man and his family deserves all good things for the time he served.

[@user-lp7tx1fe6t]

Sorry but I don't understand how being a door gunner on a heli in Vietnam could Save American lives

[@barrysutton4589]

@@user-lp7tx1fe6t You would understand if you were there I'm a Vietnam vet

[@a1marine105]

@@user-lp7tx1fe6t ahem your protecting other soldiers a potentially pow not only are your protecting them your protecting the helj

[@Goopy200]

Yeah, shooting innocent Vietnamese farmers and such. What a hero...

[@Goopy200]

I have no ill-will towards to men who had to fight in this war but let's not pretend they are heroes for taking part in a useless war that killed lots of innocent Vietnamese people.

[@georgiamule]

I had a friend in the early 70s who was a grunt that volunteered for door gunner training in 66 or 67. He survived his tour which included getting shot down twice. He got his Purple Heart when a round hit his helmet mic and popped his lip. He came back to the U.S. , entered the Warrant Officer Flight program and returned to Vietnam as a Huey pilot. He lost two more aircraft but survived to finish his second tour. I met him when he had become a cop and was finishing his bachelors degree. We were friends for a little over a year until he was accepted by the FBI to be trained as a Special Agent. He spent 26 years in the bureau and retired. After that, I lost contact with my friend because he was recruited by a government agency, which one I don’t know. He was my definition of a hero and I am proud to have known him. I hope he is well.

[@marshmellowjb8045]

I'm crying man after you lost touch with him :(

[@MrJoint888]

I am for sure he’s good doing well

[@CrimsonAlchemist]

These guys killed innocent children, women and old people that are minding their own business in Vietnam. Many soldiers later admitted how they view the Vietnamese as animals than human beings.

[@danielchung4973]

@@CrimsonAlchemist stop going and copying this to every fucking comment you're not helping your case. o

[@trailrunner78]

@@CrimsonAlchemist Boo fucking hoo

[@KOBAColo]

"Been there, Done that"! This gentleman is for real. I flew Huey's in VN with these guys. 'He be "real" '. These guys were outstanding, and that come from a 229th AHB, 1st Cav., Gary Owen Task Force pilot that flew the 'Battle of An Loc' Spring/Summer of '72. (If you don't know/understand, Google Battle of An Loc Vietnam 1972). I have one thing to say to Victor Smith, 'Respect!"

[@stevent9179]

We Yanks love our Aussie cousins....we will always have each other's backs.

[@angelokarantonis7509]

Yeah well the real Australian don’t want your stupid war tribes.

[@stupidleftists2580]

Eat our ass

[@jayk7422]

steven t ..... cheers 🍺👍

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

@Mitch 111 politics is politics. People are people. Iamnsure we shake out heads regarding each countries governments and sometimes our own. That being said I have nothing but respect for the Australian people.

[@stankygeorge]

Amen Brother!

[@Raykibb1]

I was friends with a former door-gunner who was my best friend’s older brother. He lost an arm having taken on damage and the copter crashed. He became an avid boater, converting an old crew boat into his personal sanctuary. Mike had serious problems from Vietnam and died young, around 60yo. He was buried at sea, and the army had two copters in the area that day, and as we sat onboard his boat, the helicopters flew at us and did the lost pilot peel off. It was the most patriotic thing I have ever seen. God Bless Mike!

[@stevehay964]

How many million Vietnamese did America kill in that war? Thanks in advance.

[@Crashoverride1234]

Why is this comment being copied and pasted?

[@omnom3568]

Thank you for sharing. Gave me chills imagining the helicopters peeling off

[@stevehay964]

@HustleMuscle69 They did the killing, you dummy. You're welcome.

[@stevehay964]

@@silvermold Duh?

[@AustinV1st]

My drafting teacher in High School Mr. Barnes was a door gunner in Vietnam, he took no shit from anybody.

[@geraldboykin6159]

So tough......but USA got it's ass kicked!!!

[@loganstriker2973]

@@geraldboykin6159 - the Deep State structured things so the USA didn't win.

[@umbrellacorporationwuhanfa3731]

@@geraldboykin6159 Soldiers WON those battles and encounters! The politicians LOST the war! Let's be clear here.

[@bigblue6917]

@@umbrellacorporationwuhanfa3731 Interestingly Nixon did not know that it was he who had to set the goals needed to win the Viet Nam. He thought the military had to do that. The other problem the US military had was the Westmoreland had no idea what he was doing. His experience was fighting Germany in Europe.

[@bigblue6917]

When you have had people trying to kill you and you survived that everything else get put into context.

[@mattmcdaniel6219]

To smash the like button doesn't do justice to the honor of sharing these memories with this fine Soldier. God Bless

[@Fat12219]

Poor GI soldiers

[@nellafslegna]

Vic, you are a hero to all of us. No matter what country we or you are from.

[@kilo-mn5md]

Through out history the Australians have been tough fighters, much respect. US Army '96-06

[@zcam1969]

my hat is off to the Australians who fought along side American troops in Viet Nam

[@Handleyman]

Thanks

[@kenprevatt1267]

Thank you for your service sir

[@gabbyhayes1568]

My friend's father was a U.S. Marine in the South Pacific during WWII and he said no one messed with the Aussies as they were "a pretty rough bunch" according to him and he was a good old boy from Texas.

[@jayk7422]

👍

[@felkerforcongress]

Aussies and Brits are Americas True friends! Proudly serve with them again.

[@Church2425]

Hell yeah they are.

[@richarddavidson7067]

Couple of kiwis too😜

[@infeedel7706]

All welcome for a beer.

[@elguapo1507]

That's true but you must remember that us Brits didn't serve in Vietnam. When France ran away it was left to the US, Australian and New Zealand forces to the fighting. Brave folks, all of them!

[@johnthorburn1913]

You might want to tell that to your President.

[@carlcrisp8700]

I was a crew chief / door gunner Nov.69-Oct.70 with the 114th AHC "Knights" out of Vinh Long Airfield in the Delta. The RAAF "Emus" and "Taipans" worked our area and we got to know a lot of their crews. Top notch aviators and crews...match up with anybody. And those stories you hear about Aussies being able to drink everybody (and that includes American Squids) under the table, is absolutely true. They were our brothers in every sense of the word. God Bless 'em. I went to Sidney on R and R....beautiful country, really nice people and the older folks always made a point of telling us how much they appreciated the USA not allowing Japan to turn their land into a colony.

[@MrAli171]

So many brave men on both sides lost their lives in this war and we should never forget their sacrifices

[@infeedel7706]

Best post I've read so far, wishing for unlimited upvotes... Thought the first episode of Ken Burn's Vietnam documentary season was such an eye opener.

[@XavierJones-z3d]

Fuck the commies tho

[@vincentsauer99]

@@arvedludwig3584 Most people dont get that. They are influeced heavilly by the US Propaganda. US were acutually the bad guys here. Tonkien was all made up. The files are open. Thats a afct lol

[@saints360row]

@@vincentsauer99, The US were the bad guys probably even in Afghanistan; the US's CIA were allies with Al Qaeda ("Home Base" or "HQ") in the '70s & '80s yet supposedly AQ blew up the towers in 2001 - The same time the Taliban ("Teachers") halted opium production which reduced the world heroin supply by 75% between 2000 & 2002? Sounds suspicious as hell given the US's history with either being in drug areas or drug trafficking areas of the world, not to mention the CIA directly trafficking copious amounts & a variety of drugs.

[@saints360row]

What was the sacrifice for?

[@rogerfuhr8067]

I will never forget sitting next to the door gunner on a combat assault with the noise from the m-60 and the hot shell casings landing on us. Believe me, the adrenaline was pumping. VN 70-71, 101st Airborne.

[@rafiyumahmood2446]

Roger Fuhr thank you for your service, god bless you

[@ricktrussell7988]

Welcome back!

[@dwightstewart7181]

Helicopter door gunners certainly had it a hell of a lot better than the troops they dropped into hot landing zones to spend days fighting in the swamps and jungles without escape. The door gunners stayed in huts, eating hot meals & sleeping on cots, while the troops fought off snakes, booby traps, snipers, and enemy assaults.

[@jamessistrunk2389]

God Bless you and all the brave men who served in the Armed Forces

[@killian9314]

@@dwightstewart7181 nobody in any wat has it as tough as everyone. That doesn't mean they didn't face their perils. AA..flak guns. Migs. No fly zone restrictions. Maintenance. Etc.

[@snipe1066]

Much respect from an American navy vet (1972-78)!

[@carlcrisp8700]

I was a Crew Chief / Door Gunner in the Mekong Delta '69-'70. The RAAF "Emus" and "Taipans" operated in our area and we worked with them often. Great guys, always dependable, always friendly and could out-drink everybody.

[@SaltyDawg-wu5kr]

67NOVEMBER20 1ST AIR CAV. 67/70

[@proonguice8386]

Thank you guys from the US of A.

[@Monkmaster1969]

@johnny blaze Would you have known a CPT John Binkley? He was an EMU that worked with me back at Mother Rucker 69'-73'. He retired as a full bull O-6 and is still around.

[@nancyegreene7453]

Carl Crisp WELCOME HOME CARL! ✌️🙏🇺🇸

[@kenprevatt1267]

Thank you for your service sir

[@americafirst4181]

Love the Aussies , tough folks. Me pop's served with SF in Vietnam. Much Love and respect

[@AESports567]

my uncle was a vietnam door gunner i also have never heard him say a word about it and he has attempted suicide 2 from the trauma he is left with. thank you

[@rayupson]

Always good to have the 'Aussies' on your side, they are the best, all respect to Victor Smith and his friends

[@Deovindice1918]

My grandfather was a door gunner in Vietnam. He died when I was very young, but I’ll always cherish what few memories and stories I do have of him.

[@irongoatrocky2343]

Mr Smith, as a Veteran (US Army) of my Nation, I would like to say Thank You for your Service to your Nation.

[@Cruiserweight190]

One of the biggest reasons we in America love the Australian's is they stood with us in Vietnam

[@phelixjmech8523]

cruiserweight190 like the Americans stood by us in Ww2 we will never forget your sacrifices🇦🇺

We love you back

[@pauliemc2010]

PhelixJMech stood by ?

[@jonmcclane7433]

Love the Aussies! They like Racing, Hunting, Beer, and Sports. RIP to Holden, great cars...

[@aarondrennan5650]

Absolutely!!

[@mikem4259]

Australians are the greatest people. We, in the US, love them for their stalwart dedication to our alliance. During my time in the US Marine corps, we would occasionally train with Aussie troops. I’m so glad we are allies. I made a lot of friends, or “mates”. I just can’t say enough about them, just the greatest, hard partying, hard drinking, and hard fighting bunch.

[@coval5694]

Did you ever participate in Talisman Sabre because I know that US troops participating or the operation in general are unpopular with some communities

[@redskua]

michael meisner ,,,brothers always Michael

[@marinewillis1202]

I was in the Corps also and i completely agree. They are first rate fighters. They might not have the hardware we do but they don't need it because if anyone messes with them the US would rain down hell on that country that would make the Iraq wars look like training exercises. You don't mess with Aussies with the USA around. No one wants to learn that the hard way.

[@redskua]

@@marinewillis1202 ,,, Wil, l it is our alliance that has stopped the Chinese from getting pushy with us. The bond our two countries share is a wonderful and rare thing. We Ozzies treasure it. Be well mate.

[@webshootah777]

My dad served in Vietnam in the navy. He was a door gunner on pilot rescue. I remember when he took me to see Top Gun. He was all excited because Ghost Squadron was used to film the stunts for the movie and that was his Squad. Her passed away 3 years ago a few days after he met his then 1 month old grandson on Father's day. It was a good day.....I can't wait to take my son to see the sequel.

[@christopherheuer2126]

Thanks to you and all the brave men and women who served in Vietnam.

[@one3BRAVO]

So much love for the Aussies. Their contributions in Vietnam are criminally overlooked

[@brandankriegel466]

God bless all of you. My Dad served in Vietnam in the 173rd Assault Helicopter Company 67-68 as a crew chief and door gunner. We are forever grateful.

[@allenadams181]

What a real man!!! I'm humbled!

[@kiera_kayaks7521]

I love this, thank you. My father was a Huey pilot in Vietnam and is no longer with us. 007

[@jaywalker712]

Pilots on Vietnam were the best, many times when things got tough they flew into a hot lz to pick us up and save us. Pilots saved more lives in Vietnam than anyone. The door gunners, they made it so pilots could do their job.

[@matthewplymale8696]

We love our fellow ally Australia! You have been beside us through thick and thin , you guys are tough as they come . Thanks to all you who served from America

[@mercefigueroa5349]

Much respect to our Vietnam Vets. Been to Afghanyland 3 times as a Combat Engineer wih US Army but these old Vets went through hell and came back. All of these old vets have my respect.

[@ellemint]

You have our respect. thank you for your service.

[@richiecuzzz1]

As an American who has family that fought in WW2, I’ve always had so much respect for the ANZAC forces. ESPECIALLY the Australians who fought with us in the Pacific During WW2 . We helped stop the Japanese expansion that would inevitably lead to Australia. The Aussies fought valiantly with us everywhere they went. They also fought in the Vietnam war with us and not many people who aren’t history buffs as I am, know that. I hope to visit Australia and New Zealand when this virus shit ends. Im glad we are allies with some of the best countries in the world. Together we are unstoppable! Much love from California! 🇺🇸🇬🇧 🇦🇺 🇨🇦 🇳🇿

[@mikethemechanic7395]

My first year in the Army was in 1993. I served under the last of the 25 year guys. They had nothing but respect for Australia and NZ.

[@a.joseph4233]

Thanks for your service..Vietnam Vets true heroes.

[@networth8754]

The commitment, humility, and bravery displayed here is so rare today.

[@M-Sixty]

I salute all Vietnam Vets! Thank You for your Service!!!!!!

[@motorcitymanman7711]

@Big Bill O'Reilly Its not a perfect world is it?

[@motorcitymanman7711]

@Geba You're a Moron! There are atrocities in EVERY war committed by both sides.

[@thomasfoss9963]

@Big Bill O'Reilly Calley was just another casualty of the insanity

[@thomasfoss9963]

@Big Bill O'Reilly Fuck you--you ignorant prick

[@Archer28M]

Servis? Servis ? Dumb fucks !!! Stil don't know what the Vietnam war was all about ? 58.000 Americans killed for what? FOR WHAT YOU DUMB FUCK? 2.500.000 -3.00.000 Killed on Vietnam side... For what?

[@MandoArredondo]

Thank you for your service... here in America, you and your mates are not forgotten

[@williamleeming4082]

I had a boss who was a gunner in Nam. He told me a little bit about what he did an what he experienced. My hats off to the Nam Vets. They earned it! God Bless what you did n sacrificed for our Country. God Bless all of you. Thank you for your service.

[@stephensmith4480]

What a guy. I Don`t think we hear enough of the part that the aussie lads played in Vietnam. I can`t imagine, some of the things that these guys must have seen. My total respect goes to anyone who has served in a war zone, either past or present.

[@toddhellyar4167]

Watch the Aussie movie "Danger Close" released in 2019.

[@chuckg2016]

Thank'n you for your service & wishing you a welcome home, mate! We always knew you guys had our backs. VietVet 1970-71

[@arronlockyer5424]

Mustang retired USMC after 28 years. This is my son. Patriots, We really need your help!!.. He was a VOLUNTEER FIREMAN, AND VOLUNTEER EMS. He was always there to help others in their time of need! Its simple can you skip an extra cup of coffee a few times this week to help someone that would help you? We have all said we will help fellow Patriots in their time of need and we all stand together!!!... Let make this go VIRAL and also Donate! .. www.gofundme.com/f/help-cervical-spinal-problems

[@davidrichter9164]

Can't even begin to express my gratitude to Vietnam veterans and all veterans. Thank you so much for your service.

[@channelremoved1917]

God bless all Vietnam vets the world over. Thank you Australia. We will never forget your service.

[@arronlockyer5424]

Mustang retired USMC after 28 years. This is my son. Patriots, We really need your help!!.. He was a VOLUNTEER FIREMAN, AND VOLUNTEER EMS. He was always there to help others in their time of need! Its simple can you skip an extra cup of coffee a few times this week to help someone that would help you? We have all said we will help fellow Patriots in their time of need and we all stand together!!!... Let make this go VIRAL and also Donate! .. www.gofundme.com/f/help-cervical-spinal-problems

[@sweetrollofnirn]

Americans fought alongside our Aussie homies I’m proud to see this makes me feel like we weren’t alone during the dark times

[@jameswalley134]

I had the privilege of being a Pilot on Huey’s from 1983 - 1988. This video clip brought back many memories. I spent 11 months in the Peace Keeping Force between Israel & Egypt but fortunately never experienced the hardships that this gentleman faced. Guys like this fellow truly are heroes.

[@aceroadholder2185]

The 547th Signal Troop Royal Australian Army at Nui Dat was attached to my battalion, the U.S. Army 303rd Radio Research Bn. The Aussies and New Zealanders were great group of guys.. professional all the way. They were the guys that were flying the RAAF Pilatus aircraft with the ARDF antennas out of the airfield at Nui Dat.

[@Vnachi8]

My father served with ANZAC's during Vietnam, as well as in Dunedin, NZ, during Operation Deep Freeze. When my brother went backpacking in New Zealand during the 1990's, he quickly learned that the normally helpful and welcoming Kiwi's, literally began falling all over themselves when they learned he was the son of an former comrade in arms. Everyone talks about the US and Great Britain, but don't sleep on the ANZAC's, they've got balls of steel and are always up for a fight.

[@pipercolt1963]

@@Vnachi8 thanks for your service

[@mikes6970]

@@Vnachi8 yes .. us kiwis fo get forgotten abit ..... only soldier with 2 combat VCs is a kiwi ... capt charles upton .... our SAS are second to none ...... plus our maori troops in ww2 and after are well respected ... kiwis are always somewhere in thick of it ... but humble and dislike the lime light .....

[@BRENT97K]

Love these stories. I almost feel ignorant because I didn’t realize that the SAS and Australians had a big role in helping us in this war. Very glad that I came across this. Love America, and all of our allies. We all wouldn’t be here without each other

[@17111993DAVE]

America has 10 times the people do so we help as much as we can. The scale of help just isn't as large.

[@octqne]

@Barry Baz Why would he bring up a war thats been over for 50 years

[@jamesmichael1978]

@@octqne He did critisize McCain for being captured in that war. Republicans often say they should get black votes because of Abraham Lincoln. I'm not saying any of this makes sense.

[@octqne]

@@jamesmichael1978 Fair point, all is fair in politics i guess

[@jackhawthorn4799]

NOTE: When he refers to the SAS, he's referring to the Australian SAS(the ASAS) not the British SAS(it's confusing because New Zealand's special forces are also called the SAS/NZSAS and i think South Africa's Special Forces were also at one time called the SAS)

[@brianduff9123]

Thank you sir.. I'm sorry for your hell but I'm so grateful you went through it. I don't know you, but I love you sir.

[@jasonlong862]

Thank you for your service. My dad was infantry marine in vietnam. Thank you very much!!

[@ArcturanMegadonkey]

What great bloke, If you're ever reading this, thank you for your service.

[@raybabinraybabin7777]

My wife’s dad was a door gunner did his tour came home only to be murdered in the drive way of a home in Lafayette Louisiana when she was only 4 yrs old sad but true. Lafayette still has a killer running around.

[@fatfreddyscoat7564]

That’s so fucked up... survived the hell of Vietnam only to be murdered at home?

[@anthonyharvey6471]

Man i hope that murderer burns in hell!

[@CrimsonAlchemist]

These guys killed innocent children, women and old people that are minding their own business in Vietnam. Many soldiers later admitted how they view the Vietnamese as animals than human beings.

[@ashdonsimmons01]

@@CrimsonAlchemist stfu

[@kayem3824]

@@CrimsonAlchemist The Vietnamese are one of the most gentle people on the planet. It was their land. If asked, these guys don't even know what they were doing there, except what they'd seen in movies.

[@slide_or_die]

Thanks for putting your life on the line for us Vic, and RIP to your conrad's that were not so lucky. Again thank you.

[@benos4170]

Vic Smith you are an absolute gentleman and a hero. I could listen to speak for hours. Keep this history alive

[@rh8611]

Vietnam Vets are getting old, it great to catch these stories, now. As an Iraq war vet, I often thought about those that served in other battlefields. A very humble down to earth guy. Well done sir

[@ethansmith6894]

My grandmas brother was a door gunner in Vietnam. He got shot up through his leg and out his head. He survived. Lived a while later. I wish I could’ve met him. I’m sure he would’ve had a lot to say.

[@cs-rj8ru]

My Uncle was a door gunner. He was a giant of a man.. He didn't like to talk about the war much and mentally came apart before he died in 2007....He apparently took quite a few photos in Vietnam, lots from his chopper. I looked over the albums of photos at his funeral...Damn is about all I can say.

[@Tosh31316]

Mine was a surgeon (Navy) that often worked front lines with the Marines. Heard video tapes he send back to my nana and you heard the Vietcong in the background. spooky stuff. He told me more than anyone else about it. Wasn't much said, but enough as i served as well. I Trained with some Aussie's a damn good bunch them.

[@frankrizzo454]

Very proud of Australians and their fighting spirit! they never quit regardless of the hell they are put in. brave men down under never get the credit they deserve - South Carolina

[@ianbrown9743]

Thank you

[@tonibolton7377]

You are the BRAVEST person I know...thank you for your service!

[@brianmarquez3883]

my grandfather surved in the vietnam war he was never the same when he came back

[@infeedel7706]

My Grandfathers served in the First (Paternal) and Second (Maternal) World Wars, I was trained as an Air Cadet by Aussie Vietnam Vets. They deserve our respect, it was another misguided war given to us by our shitty politicians.

[@bigblue6917]

You hear this so often it makes you wonder why we still keep doing it.

[@stevemiller1085]

@@bigblue6917 Unfortunately the people that start the wars are not the people that fight it.

[@xxkilleroxx]

@@stevemiller1085 But the people who figt it elect the people they start it.

[@stevemiller1085]

@@xxkilleroxx Not necessarily, the person i vote for doesnt always win the election.

[@philbrown9764]

I’m a Nam Vet...Chu Lai 68-69 1st MAW MAG 12. We used to see these Huey’s fly by when we were on the beach. I used to wave at the door gunners, just to let them know that there was someone on the ground that appreciated them and wished Good Luck.

[@Jacobtaylor1775]

Semper Fidelis, Phil.

[@DuggzValentine]

Man thanks for your service to the military. It is well appreciated here in England

[@americansilverback1947]

Thank you so much for your service and for all that gave the altimate sacrifice god bless you all you will never be forgotten

[@dasalottamayonaze]

I am humbled by the dedication and bravery, and grateful for the blanket of freedom you all helped and continue to help provide. Capt. Ken USA

[@Dr.Westside]

My dad was a door gunner among other things . I get to hear all the good stories . Dad did 3 tours 61. 66 , 67 .

[@MrKurns]

Just out interest, what was the reason for 5 years apart?

[@burneybysouth]

Thanks for your service Vic. Great to see you are proud of your time in Vietnam and the RAAF. You should be!

[@thekillerjackalope9625]

My grandfather was a door gunner in Vietnam. He survived being shot down twice. Thank you for your service.

[@livinglegend5762]

Saw a gunship pilot and a cav soldier who had been in same at same in nam and the cav thanked the pilot as the smiled and shook hands and said he loved hearing them coming overhead cause he knew they were about to blaze em up. They were like brothers who always knew of but had never seen eachother. All love. I was glad to see that bond. HOOAH

[@treadheadpete4770]

An amazing story from one who was there! This kind of history cannot be forgotten! Thank you, from a Canadian.

[@dangerman8625]

This man is genuine, he knows what he's talking about, air personal use certain words, thay have there own language.!

[@Anomaly.Filmworks]

Personnel*

[@Anomaly.Filmworks]

Their* own language... Seems you do too...

[@redwood1133]

God bless this man that he can have and do anything he wants in heaven and his next life... what a hero... you have a fan!

[@fourpipes]

Thank you for your service. Lest We Forget 🇦🇺

[@larryspiller6633]

So good to hear from an Australian who was in Vietnam. A shout out to my Good Friend D. Orlich who also served in Vietnam in our USMC's VMO 6. God Bless all of you.

[@frankzucarelli1207]

I flu with VMO-6 myself great outfit. Semper Fi to all my brothers in arms

[@dominiquecharriere1285]

"He was still shaking after a few beers..." Guy must have had the terror of his life!

[@randallborders3021]

ya reckon ? it'd take a bit mor'n a buncha vino 4 dis kid ta TRY & deal widdat - as well as ..... other stuff

[@SSMateuszSS]

@@randallborders3021 english much?

[@sean95]

@@randallborders3021 sorry, what?

[@originaljcs]

I was still shaking half hour later after bungee jumping!

[@reneb.2394]

Lol

[@FiveFourOne87l1]

My father was a door gunner. Cool to see this. He Lived through the tet offensive. Much love for vets (less for our current establishment)

[@denth3148]

Cameron Stewart why less now?

[@davekiss5145]

My FREND John Kissinger AKA wishbone was a gunner in nam he is gone now and I miss him RIP WISHBONE .

[@oiitzME1266]

RIP Wishbone

[@davekiss5145]

@@oiitzME1266 thank you !

[@valley6636]

RIP 😔

[@MaxEncinias]

Rip wishbone

[@davekiss5145]

@@MaxEncinias thank you !

[@Lukey-Dukey-AUS]

It's nice to hear stories from an Aussie about Vietnam thanks for your work.

[@henryjacobsen733]

My uncle was a door gunner in Nam too. Was shot 3 times and kept re enlisting until they made him come home. Never said alot about it but also never cried about PTSD. Remembering him this Memorial day and everyday.

[@tufgbhw6986]

my grandfather was a door gunner, he was drafted for 'nam so he decided to join the marines.. he has never said a single word about it.. he just won't, he goes silent if you bring it up.. you can see in his face that he went through things few could ever understand

[@robertclifton5795]

Semper Fi ....... God bless your grandfather !

[@tufgbhw6986]

Just in case anyone is curious for vague background of comment, if not ignore this and go on with your life.. he only ever said one thing when i was young, about 10.. i said "why did you go to war?" and he said "i was drafted, so i figured if i had to go, i wanted to be with the best of the best. so i enlisted in the marines." and i said "what did you do?", and he said "it was my job to control the machine gun on helicopters, we had to land and load dead and wounded people onto the helicopter" and I asked "you had to do it while fighting was still going on around you?" and he said "yes" and I asked him if he killed anyone and he cleverly changed the subject because I was still young.. as I got older i wanted to know more so I've asked him twice 5 years ago, i asked him the weekend before and I thought he seemed annoyed so i left it alone but next weekend I asked again because I'm so curious i couldn't help myself and he just looked at me and didn't say a word, like speechless I guess, it was like this mixed expression and I realized that he had this expression like he was dying inside and he would take whatever happened to the grave with him, I know he will never tell a soul what happened, so I will never bring it up to him again.. I've never really seen him show any emotion whatsoever, and the second time I realized the expression on his face was agony, from having it brought up and having to be reminded of it.. I'm sure that whatever he went through must've been bad.. I know only those who lived it could understand.. my great grandfather served in europe in ww2 but was stabbed to death in 1972 outside of a bar, i never knew him.. I wanted to serve so badly, i grew up during the afghanistan war, I didn't want to go there to just kill, i wanted to be a good person and be there to help in the best way I knew how and I wanted to serve.. I was disqualified for really stupid reasons, I really wish they would've let me serve.. my life would be so different.. I'd join today if they'd let me..

[@saints360row]

So you asked him multiple times if he's killed someone? - Really, it's not all that special to kill, not talking about murder, someone; the only people that have a problem with it are the people who never have because it's really the same as killing an animal, which I suppose could disturb some initially with preconceived notions in how killing is bad, or if you knew them. He only never speaks of it probably for one of two reasons. One being it's about as pointless as talking about virginity or two being that he murdered someone or some people. Also, be wary of joining the military, because wars are typically for profit now; I could go into detail how Vietnam & Afghanistan are in the Golden Triangle & Golden Crescent, not to mention the CIA's Secret War within the Golden Triangle in Laos, which refers to being a golden zone for growing opium, as well as a slew of other shit but I digress.

[@tufgbhw6986]

@@saints360row yeah I'm not naive, I just wasn't trying to write a novel and give every detail. I don't need you to explain to me why a veteran wouldn't want to talk about that, but he's my grandpa, so of course i asked him? And we all have our own opinion of what the military is, it was always for profit. I've never been in the service but I've lived the type of life that would be illegal for me to talk about, not by choice.. you don't know me or what I've been through.

[@davidcrick1123]

I understand that. My Uncle was a Chindit in Burma, radio operator (WW2). Could never, never get him to talk about it.

[@alanreynolds8843]

Thanks so much for for your service "cobber" . Really good to see Australian archival footage you and "ALL" our troops are true heroes

[@cliftontibbits6644]

Thank you to each and every one who has served in our armed forces past present and future,may our good Lord watch over you all ....

[@billwessels207]

I was told that helicopter life expectancy in 1967 was on average 90 seconds in combat. Door gunners life expectancy was 45 seconds in combat. I have met very few surviving door gunners from that era in subsequent years. I know of several combat chopper pilots from that era, but not many. My hat is off to you and to all of my comrades in arms. God bless and keep you always, Sir. Thank you very much for your service.

[@cw93711]

My stepfather was a pj and door gunner in Vietnam.

[@ieatoutoften872]

The USA government recognized the shorter life-expectancy for helicopter crews by offering shorter tours of duty for volunteering for that military occupational specialty (m.o.s. or mos). The idea was that if you let the recruits know they could have a shorter commitment (tour) than everyone else, than maybe more would volunteer to be a door gunner. It went something like as follows: 2 year tour for dangerous mos like infantry, 1 year tour for helicopter pilot or co--pilot, 6 month tour for door-gunner. I know this because I heard the same thing as you heard from a Vietnam war veteran. I heard the story from a respected missionary who said the (former) door-gunner he knew was the most sincerely prayer-full person he ever met. Thanks for your comment.

[@Scootah95]

My grandfather is 72 or 73 and still alive. He was the gunner out of helicopters in Vietnam I have never heard him talk about anything. Ever. He's showed me medals, a flag he still has, and other cool things. But never ever has he mentioned anything about his time there. I believe his highest rank throughout his time as a marine was master sergeant. He was shot in the foot as well. He's been through some stuff.

[@donaldgarver6594]

This vidieo is one that I wactched through out of intrest and out of respect for this mans service and the men that he held in rememberance

[@johnhallam4714]

Donald Garver yeah me too

[@neilhamill318]

Any TRUE Australian will always support the efforts and appreciate the sacrifice and courage of all our defence personal in any conflict anywhere. 🇦🇺

[@bradkeough8073]

How in the heck do 1K dislike this! He's a damn hero.

[@sheepdog271]

Much Respect Sir, and Thank You for your Service!

[@canadianracer83]

My father in laws best friend is a vet, 3 tours on a Huey door… I feel blessed to have sat with him on several occasions, late in the evening, on the front porch. The stories I have heard over cigars and single malts would make anyone question the “romantic” aura that going to war seems to possess with most. He went through hell, voluntarily, 3 times and as a Canadian citizen fighting for the US. He’s done things no one should ever have to, he’s seen things no one should have to, yet he lived a full life filled with joy. Every day for him is a blessing, he lives every one to its fullest. He says that time in his life gave him a truth few ever learn. Life is truly precious and should not be squandered. I have met few people as real and honest as him, less I knew I could trust. 🍻 to all who made it home, tears for those who did not, all lives lost to war are wasted. Forget we shall not.

[@davidknows3320]

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. What a Man.

[@thetreblerebel]

Thanks to this brave Aussie, for doing one helluva job!

[@brittneyholmes4436]

My father flew these helicopters in Vietnam as well. He doesn’t talk much about it but when he does he always has something very interesting to talk about. I’m glad he is alive and that he’s my dad I’m so proud of him I can only imagine the horrors he saw and had to deal with.

[@jmsmitty123]

I can’t watch this without “Paint It, Black” or “Fortunate Son” playing in my head.

[@tigeriussvarne177]

Same.

[@vladimirvaynkhadler8726]

well youre a dumbass

[@jmsmitty123]

@@vladimirvaynkhadler8726 well, that escalated quickly. You should probably check your blood pressure.

[@tomb4575]

The Simpsons parodyed that phenomena. A newscaster explains for a news report they would be showing film footage of the Viet Nam war with of course the accompanied sound track of Purple Haze

[@davidcannon2162]

@Billy B. You surely weren't. There.

[@reneb.2394]

I would love to have a beer with this guy, and hear more stories that he has.

[@elliotdixon8444]

Same

[@c0ltz450]

Your PFP is a 16 year old, bruh...

[@reneb.2394]

@@c0ltz450 Your PFP is a cat, bruh...

[@c0ltz450]

@@reneb.2394 Yes, that proves nothing idiot, my point is you're just seeking for attention cause 16 year olds can't drink.

[@Anomaly.Filmworks]

@@reneb.2394 "bruh" ...get a vocabulary kid.

[@rangerbull]

In country 68-69 loved those Aussies. Brave, crazy lol, and faithfull

[@shaunsanford2253]

This gentleman talks about his duties like you and i talk about getting the mail. The pure courageous is beyond measure.

[@jasonhiggins8909]

God bless you aussie brotha! My dad was 1st calv and liked you boys in combat!

[@shackman9566]

Thank you for your service and your sacrifice.

[@raycast6277]

God bless you Sir, could only imagine how many Friendly's you saved. Thank you for your service...

[@isabelnunez5259]

I’m only 11 but my grandfather faught in ww2 and I respect every veteran from all wars after the stories of bravery and sacrifice he told me. Respect our veterans!